The Philadelphia Phillies have clinched their second consecutive National League East title.
The Phillies secured the division crown with their extra-innings win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday.
Here’s a look at the updated playoff picture after the Phillies clinched the NL East title.
*Denotes clinched playoff spot
The Phillies have all the makings of a World Series team after last year’s NLDS exit.
Much of Philadelphia’s success can be attributed to an MVP-caliber season from Kyle Schwarber. The veteran has hit the second-most homers (52) and most RBI (127) in the majors this season and has the fourth-best OPS (.940). All of those numbers are career highs.
The Phillies have also gotten solid production from Trea Turner and Bryce Harper to make for an outstanding top of their rotation.
While there are no questions about the top of the order, the rest of the lineup hasn’t had quite as much success this season. As good as Schwarber, Harper and Turner have been, Philadelphia needs more from its offense heading into the season.
Luckily, the Phillies’ pitchers have been reliable, collecting the second-most strikeouts and the seventh-best ERA in the majors this year. Cristopher Sánchez,  Ranger Suárez and Jesús Luzardo highlight the rotation, while Matt Strahm, Orion Kerkering, Tanner Banks, David Robertson and trade deadline acquisition Jhoan Durán give Philadelphia depth out of the bullpen.
The Phillies have been by no means perfect, but the resilient bunch has proved itself enough to be considered a contender heading into the postseason. They’ll have their work cut out for them trying to get past elite groups like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers.
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